Tesla Model S P90D

Overview

The 2017 Tesla Model S P90D was a proper rocket ship in the executive EV scene, offering bonkers "Ludicrous" speed and all-wheel-drive grip. Though now discontinued (produced 2016-2017), it carved a niche as a high-performance liftback that showed the world electric cars could be seriously exciting. With a potent dual-motor setup, it mixed practicality with face-melting acceleration. On the used market in Europe, you might snag one for around €28,500, making it a tempting proposition for those craving electrifying performance without the brand-new price tag. It was a true game-changer!

What's New for 2017?

For the 2017 model year, the P90D benefited from the significant April 2016 "facelift" common to the Model S range. This meant it sported the sleeker, moustache-free front end, ditching the old black nose cone for a more modern look. Internally, Autopilot hardware was evolving, with later 2016 and 2017 builds potentially getting HW2.0, paving the way for more advanced driver-assist features. The HEPA air filtration system ("Bioweapon Defense Mode") also became more widely available. The P90D itself was nearing the end of its run, soon to be overshadowed by the even mightier P100D.

Design & Exterior

The 2017 Model S P90D is one slippery stunner, rocking a sleek liftback silhouette that still turns heads. Post-facelift, its front end is cleaner, and those flush door handles add to the futuristic vibe. Dimension-wise, it’s a substantial machine: 4970 mm long, 1964 mm wide (mirrors tucked), and 1445 mm tall. P90D specific touches were subtle, usually just the badging, but often seen with uprated alloy wheels and sometimes a neat carbon fibre spoiler, hinting at the beast within. It’s a design that’s aged remarkably well, looking both elegant and athletic.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the P90D, and you’re greeted by Tesla’s signature minimalist cabin, dominated by that massive 17-inch central touchscreen – your command centre for pretty much everything. Material quality was decent, though some rivals felt plusher. Passenger space is generous, with optional rear-facing child seats boosting it to a "5, 7" seater. Luggage? No problem! You get a whopping 745 litres in the boot, expanding to 1645 litres with seats down, plus a handy 60-litre frunk. No Apple CarPlay/Android Auto here, but Tesla’s own system is slick and packed with features.

Performance & Driving Experience

Hold on tight! The P90D, with its dual motors (a PMSM at the front, IM at the rear) and all-wheel drive, unleashes a colossal 515 kW and 930 Nm of torque. This translates to a blistering 0-100 km/h sprint in a mere 3.3 seconds – that's supercar-scaring stuff, especially if "Ludicrous Mode" is specced! Top speed is a hefty 250 km/h. Despite its 2196 kg weight, it handles tidily, offering a composed ride often thanks to air suspension. Regenerative braking is strong, allowing for one-pedal driving much of the time. It's an addictive experience!

Range, Battery & Charging

The P90D packs an 85.5 kWh (usable) battery, offering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 398 km – pretty solid for its era. Energy efficiency is rated at a decent 4.65 km/kWh. For charging, its EU-spec Tesla Type 2 (Mennekes) port handles AC charging up to 11 kW, meaning a full top-up from empty takes roughly 8 hours. When you hit a Tesla Supercharger, it can gulp down electrons at up to 120 kW on its 400V architecture, getting you significant range in around 30 minutes. Access to Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network was a major perk.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Tesla has always pushed safety, and the Model S P90D scored a top-notch 5 stars from both Euro NCAP and NHTSA. Standard kit included essentials like autonomous emergency braking. The real party trick was Autopilot; 2017 models could feature Enhanced Autopilot as an option, bringing goodies like Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Lane Change, Autopark, and Summon. These systems were cutting-edge for their time, offering a glimpse into the future of driving, although always requiring driver supervision. It's a tech-laden guardian angel on wheels.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

For a 2017 Model S P90D in Europe, the original basic vehicle warranty was typically 4 years or 80,000 km. Crucially, the big ticket items – the 90 kWh battery and drive unit – were covered for a more reassuring 8 years with unlimited kilometres, guarding against major powertrain headaches. Tesla doesn't do "complimentary maintenance" like some old-school brands, but servicing needs are generally lower for EVs. Over-the-air software updates continuously improved the car, and reliability for 2017 models was generally better than the very earliest examples.